NT Reporter
Calangute
Calangute MLA Michael Lobo on Saturday welcomed the state government’s decision to tighten enforcement against drunken driving, saying Goa is sending a strong message that it will not tolerate drinking and driving.
Addressing a press conference along with Sudip Tamhankar and representatives of rent-a-car associations, Lobo said people caught driving under the influence of alcohol should face strict punishment, including imprisonment.
He said there are provisions under the Motor Vehicles Act that need to be implemented and added that stringent action is necessary to deter offenders and reduce road accidents.
The Calangute legislator said the police should
pay special attention to tourists and drivers of
rental vehicles, as drunken driving by such motorists puts the lives of other road users at risk.
His statement comes after the Directorate of Transport instructed the Superintendent of
Police (Headquarters) to ensure strict enforcement of the Motor Vehicles
Act against drivers found driving under the influence of alcohol. The directive was issued following a
representation by Tamhankar, General Secretary of the All Goa Private Bus Owners Association, seeking stronger action against such violations.
Lobo also said greater awareness about the order was required and sought the cooperation of associations and other stakeholders.
“We seek the help of associations to create awareness about the order issued by the Director of Transport,” Lobo said.
Tamhankar said he
had submitted representations on the issue earlier, but no concrete action had been taken by the department. However, considering the increasing number of accidents and the seriousness of the issue, the Chief Minister took cognisance of the matter.
Stating that cancelling driving licences was
not the solution, Tamhankar said, “There are several
provisions under the Motor Vehicles Act which, if
enforced, can help curb
accidents.
